Leaving aside the observation that the term “public-private” partnership is an oxymoron, the fact is that such an arrangement is merely a cover for corporate welfare.

The proposal by Gov. Pat McCrory's Department of Commerce to “privatize” several functions is a case in point. Republicans either are afraid to stand up for the values they supposedly believe in, or do not understand what “private” means. (“Speed, sweep of NC Commerce restructuring raise concerns,” News & Observer, Dec. 6)

The Executive Committee appointed Brad Hessel as Executive Director, filling a key vacancy in party leadership left by the departure of Jason Melehani. Hessel has operated a Raleigh-based knowledge management consulting practice since 1999. He became involved in the Libertarian Party as a Gary Johnson volunteer in 2012, and is now treasurer of the Libertarian Party of Wake County.

Once again, the News and Observer has performed an admirable public service by exposing the exorbitant salaries being paid to select state government employees and the manipulation of the law to increase their pensions.